Rebif (Interferon Beta)
What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
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Product Details
Description
Rebif is a prescription medication containing interferon beta-1a, a protein that mimics the body’s natural defense mechanisms against viral infections and certain diseases. Manufactured through recombinant DNA technology, Rebif specifically targets relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS in adults. It works by modifying the immune response to slow the progression of the disease.
Directions
Rebif is administered through injections under the skin, typically done three times per week. To ensure effectiveness and reduce the likelihood of side effects, it's important to rotate the injection site with each dose. A healthcare provider typically provides training on the proper injection technique. The standard dosage is 22 or 44 micrograms, depending on the individual. It's important to follow precisely the prescribed schedule and dosage.
Ingredients
Rebif contains the active ingredient Interferon Beta-1a. In addition, Rebif includes a number of other ingredients to support the stability and preservation of the medication: albumin (human), mannitol, sodium acetate, and water for injection.
Contraindications
People with a history of severe allergic reactions to natural or recombinant Interferon Beta or other ingredients in Rebif.
Cautions
- Talk to a healthcare provider about any of the following before starting treatment with Rebif medication:
- Any medications being taken
- Allergies to any substances
- Other medical conditions you have
- Whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you start feeling very sad or think about harming yourself while taking Rebif, it's crucial to tell your doctor right away. In some cases, stopping the medication may be necessary if depression develops.
- Rebif can affect your liver, so your doctor will check your liver function with blood tests. Be on the lookout for symptoms like feeling unusually tired, having a yellowish skin or eyes, or experiencing unusual bleeding, and report these to your healthcare provider immediately.
- If you have a severe allergic reaction to Rebif, you will need to stop taking it. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Rebif is given as an injection, and sometimes it can cause serious skin reactions where you inject the medicine. Do not inject into any areas of the skin that are sore, red, or infected. If you notice skin reactions, talk to your doctor about possibly changing where you inject the medicine or stopping Rebif until the reactions heal.
- Your doctor will monitor your blood cell counts regularly since Rebif can cause them to decrease, which might make you more prone to infections or bleeding easily.
- There have been reports of a condition involving blood clots and small blood vessels after taking Rebif. If you notice symptoms like swelling, pain, or discoloration in your limbs, inform your doctor.
- There have been cases where patients taking Interferon Beta products like Rebif develop high blood pressure in the lungs. If diagnosed with this condition, stopping Rebif might be necessary.
- If you have a history of seizures, your doctor will closely monitor you while you're on Rebif, as it could increase the risk of having seizures.
Side Effects
Rebif side effects may include flu-like symptoms, including muscle aches, fever, tiredness, and chills, particularly at the start of treatment. These effects often reduce over time and can be managed with over-the-counter medications. Other side effects are stomach pain and changes in liver function tests.
Rebif may cause serious conditions such as blood problems, leading to low counts of red and white blood cells and platelets, increasing the risk of infections and bleeding. High blood pressure in the lungs and seizures have also been reported. Regular blood tests and immediate medical attention for severe symptoms are recommended.
References:
- Rebif (Interferon Beta) Product Monograph. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono; 2023.
- Rebif (Interferon Beta) Drug Label Information. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono; 2023.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 9350
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